Planning staff seeks broad zoning code changes; first reading of implementing ordinance scheduled

Planning staff outlined a broad set of zoning code text amendments during a public hearing at the Dayton City Council meeting, describing changes intended to clarify administration, align with state rules and planning best practices, and remove barriers to housing development.

Jen Hanauer, who identified herself as a member of the planning division and secretary to the city plan board, told the commission the amendments cover 17 separate changes. Examples she highlighted included expanding the definition of middle multifamily dwellings to allow reactivation of existing 3- and 4-unit buildings in mature single-family districts; treating congregate care and protective care facilities more consistently; clarifying accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rules in historic districts; removing density maximums in certain multifamily districts; updating marijuana regulations to reflect state changes; revising telecommunications tower language; adding explicit rules for food trucks and graffiti removal; updating bike, EV and vehicle parking rules; adding a minor record plan process for small lot combinations; and removing indoor self-storage as a permitted use in downtown and some mixed-use districts.

Hanauer said staff solicited public input through work sessions, land-use board meetings, a lunch-and-learn and plan-board hearings; the city plan board unanimously recommended approval to the commission. Zoning administrator Kirsten (last name not stated) explained how the draft distinguishes unauthorized graffiti from permitted murals and described a penalty structure with higher maximum fines for the most egregious commercial cases.

After no citizens signed up during the public hearing portion, a commissioner moved to advance the item. Clerk Blackshear read the implementing ordinance identification: the zoning case will be implemented by ordinance number 32154-25 and will receive first reading only (ordinance PLN2024-00417). No final adoption occurred; Hanauer and staff said they are available to answer follow-up questions as the item proceeds through the ordinance process.

Why it matters: The amendments touch land use, housing, public art policy, and commercial development standards and are intended to speed permitting and reduce barriers to housing while aligning local code with state law and modern planning practice.

Ending: The item was scheduled for a first reading; staff will return with the formal ordinance and additional details for commissioners to review prior to any final vote.